Product Description

Celestron s NexStar telescopes were introduced in 1999, beginning with their first computer controlled "go to model, a 5-inch. More models appeared in quick succession, and Celestron s new range made it one of the two dominant manufacturers of affordable "go to telescopes. Michael Swanson s online discussions with literally thousands of NexStar owners made it clear that there was a desperate need for a book such as this - one that provides a complete, detailed guide to buying, using and maintaining NexStar telescopes. Although this book is highly comprehensive, it is suitable for beginners - there is a chapter on "Astronomy Basics - and experts alike.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #124137 in Books
• Published on: 2004-01-30
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 320 pages

Review
"I knew all I needed to know about my scope, didn t I? ... The NexStar User s Guide by Michael Swanson answers that question with a resounding No." ... Swanson includes thorough, model-specific descriptions of the all the telescope functions, care and maintenance, accessories, and numerous advanced topics. You ll find advice on how to fine-tune your alignment so that a new target will fall within the eyepiece s field of view every time you slew. I used to be pleased if that happened two or three times in a night. And are you tormented by backlash? Do you hit the hand paddle s arrow keys to nudge the aim and have to count to four before the scope actually moves? I was vaguely aware that my 8-inch had backlash compensation settings, but I had never bothered trying to adjust them. And now? Oh, the joy of (almost) backlash-free observing! I was surprised by the difference these small improvements made in the pleasure of my observing experience. Besides owning two NexStars, Swanson s major credential for writing this book is his NexStar Resource Site (www.nexstarsite.com), which is the precursor to the Guide ... The author suggests, and I concur, that the book and the Web site be used in tandem. ... [The book s] true advantage comes from its friendly approach and sound advice based on the personal experiences of the author and other avid NexStar users." --Sky & Telescope (December 2004)

About the Author
Michael Swanson is Technical Manager of Information Systems at the U.S. Navy Hospital in Okinawa, Japan. After purchasing his first NexStar telescope he set up a web site to support the NexStar user community. A chance association via an Internet discussion group led to an introduction to members of the management team at Celestron, who provided valuable technical resources that made this book possible.

Customer Reviews

Indispensable!
If you are looking to use a Celestron Nexstar computer guided GOTO telescope and mount, then this book will take you through every stage of setup, operation and maintenance, in a very user-friendly and readable manner. For the novice astronomer, the first chapter provides a thorough 40-page introduction on basic observational astronomy. Additional elements include chapters on astronomical software, connecting a PC, photography and planning your observations. In short, very highly recommended.